1) Find the Right Fit Instead of looking for the team with the
winningest record, search for the team that’s the best fit for your
child and for your family. College coaches are looking for outstanding
student-athletes, not necessarily athletes on teams with the best
record.

Frank Mullin

Kids playing soccer at Field Day 2014.

2) Don’t Specialize
Let your child try many competitive and noncompetitive activities. Even
if your child has a favorite sport, introduce him or her to as many new
ones as possible. This will combat overuse injuries, potential burnout,
and extreme expectations.

3) Practice Matters
Kids need to understand that staying focused in practice is the best
way to learn the skills they’ll need at game time. Even boring,
repetitive drills serve a purpose.

4) Internalize Motivation
Encourage your child to play for the pure joy of playing, not for a
trophy. Athletes who have a passion for their sport are the ones who
achieve success in the long run.

5) Be a Positive Role Model
Children who see their parents leading a healthy, active life engaged
in activities that make them happy, excited, and confident will also
stay active and play sports for fun.

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The Brown Alumni Magazine is published bimonthly, in print since 1900.